Understanding Multiplication Strategies

Multiplication begins in third grade and can take students some time to really understand the concept as well as the reasoning behind multiplication. There are many strategies being explored in the classroom to help students understand how to multiply, and whether their answers are reasonable. The traditional algorithm is not the only way students are multiplying these days.

The video below shows other strategies that students are focusing on to help children not only understand how to multiply but the reasoning behind it. It's not enough for students to memorize steps to an algorithm -- they need to really understand why they are performing certain steps and be able to problem solve using those steps effectively.

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Scholastic Parents is a trusted source of expert advice on reading and learning. In the Learning Toolkit blog, get quick and easy tips on how to support your child’s learning at home. From playing a fun game of creating new words during dinner to solving bedtime math stories and using easy tricks to try with homework problems, this blog offers simple suggestions for supporting your child’s development at every age and every stage.